Say the word Harlem Globetrotters, and almost everyone will know who they are. Renowned for their incredible skill, showmanship and tricks, the Globetrotters are celebrating their hundredth season.
Ottawa Life had the opportunity to speak to Globetrotter, Rock ‘Wham’ Middleton. His credentials to be on the Globetrotters are pretty solid.
ABOVE: The Harlem Globetrotters turn the game into a full‑on spectacle with jaw-dropping athleticism, comedy, and pure courtside joy. (RIGHT) Rock ‘Wham’ Middleton.
Middleton holds 13 world records in basketball, including the most dribbles in one minute. “I started playing basketball at a young age,” remembers Middleton. “I would practice for hours and hours. I knew that I wanted to play professional basketball.”
He would achieve that dream when he had the chance to try out for the Globetrotters. “I was playing basketball with a friend of my mom’s,” said Middleton. “After we were done, my mom’s friend said he could get me a tryout with the Globetrotters. The rest, as they say, is history.”
Middleton understands that being a Globetrotter is being a part of a legacy. “It is amazing to be part of an organization with a hundred-year history. My favourite player of all time has to be Marquis Haynes, who was also well-known for his dribbling.”
The Globetrotters take great pride in their volunteer work off the court. “Some of my favourite memories are going to hospitals and putting a smile on kids’ faces,” said Middleton. “We often have parents come up to us and say it is the first time their kid has smiled in months.”
You have the chance to see the Rock Middleton and the Harlem Globetrotters this Sunday, February 1, at 3:00 pm at the Canadian Tire Centre.
For tickets, check out harlemglobetrotters.com or ticketmaster.ca.
ABOVE: The Harlem Globetrotters, circa 1936.
Photos: Courtesy the Harlem Globetrotters
